Lessons in Excellence
Narrativizing Distinguished Teaching at Virginia Tech
This compelling initiative captures the art of exceptional teaching through the lived experiences of Virginia Tech's Academy of Teaching Excellence members. Led by Professor Matthew Vollmer and MFA in Creative Writing student Isaac Maxey, the project transforms decades of pedagogical wisdom into accessible, inspiring narratives. Maxey's skillful recording, alongside his collaborative work with Vollmer in editing and shaping the films, brings authentic voices and teaching moments to life with remarkable clarity. The project has culminated in three short films featuring Rachel Arnold, Katharine Cleland, and Mike Ellerbrock, each offering intimate glimpses into what "teaching excellence" means to these educators both in their reflective interviews and dynamic footage of them "in action" in their classrooms. Through these candid portraits, award-winning educators share their teaching journeys—from watershed moments that shaped their philosophies to innovative classroom strategies that foster student engagement. These visual stories reveal how passionate educators approach challenges, build meaningful connections with students, and continually reinvent their practice. Each film serves as both celebration and practical resource, offering viewers unique insights into the human dimensions of teaching excellence. By preserving these narratives, the project creates an enduring archive of pedagogical approaches that transcend disciplines while highlighting what makes teaching at Virginia Tech distinctive—a commitment to student empowerment, intellectual rigor, and transformative learning experiences.